Kids ‘R’ Kids preschool at Valrico shares how to prepare toddlers for preschool

Tips to prepare a toddler for preschool

Preschool is an exciting new beginning and a significant milestone in children’s education and development. As children join their peers on this journey of preschool education, they acquire crucial life skills, build their confidence, and become increasingly independent as they progress. The transition may seem difficult but parents can take several steps to prepare their children for preschool, and make this a fun and memorable experience. Kids ‘R’ Kids preschool shares how to make this transition a cakewalk.

1. Check out the preschool

Visiting the chosen preschool and the classroom, and also making an acquaintance with the teacher can calm a few nerves. A few days before joining, parents and children can visit the preschool and discuss the class schedule, what to expect during the day, and any other necessary information. This will make the preschool and classroom less intimidating for the child on the first school day. 

 

2. Read books about school

Books that tell stories of children going to school and online videos that showcase the fun at school can help allay the anxiety of this transition for children. Books such as “Maisy Goes to Preschool” by Lucy Cousins, “Llama Llama Misses Mama” by Anna Dewdney, “Little School” by Beth Norling, or “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn are good bets for this purpose.

 

3. Pretend play

Make-believe or pretend-play is the fastest way children learn real-life situations. Parents can pretend-play going to school with a bag and a lunch box. They can narrate an imaginary situation where kids are sitting in a circle listening to stories and playing. Roleplaying with puppets and toys is also an effective tool to portray school and its activities. Talk to children about various activities that happen at school such as lunchtime, reading, and playing with new friends. 

 

4. Build self-help skills

Certain skills such as washing hands, using the toilet, putting shoes and socks on, and using utensils at the table can be taught to children at home. These skill-sets offer a sense of independence and confidence that will allow children to adapt swiftly to preschool. 

 

5. Express and acknowledge feelings

Beginning anything new is always fraught with anxiety. Encouraging children to express their feelings and fears helps them work through these emotions. By constantly nurturing them by offering a listening ear and helping them define their feelings can help avoid any regression in other developmental areas as they take the big step towards preschool. Additionally, parents need to acknowledge and work with their feelings about their children stepping out of their comfort zones. 

 

6. Alter the schedule

Way before preschool begins, parents and children should alter their schedules to prepare for the upcoming preschool schedule. Make changes in bedtime or dinner routines slowly or gradually change the routines that may interfere with the upcoming school routine. Children thrive with routine as it helps them anticipate and prepare themselves mentally. So parents must ensure that the transition to the school schedule is as smooth as possible. 

 

Why Kids ‘R’ kids?

The philosophy of “Hug First, Then Teach”, defines every aspect of what Kids ‘R’ Kids, Valrico stands for. Unlike many daycare centers or childcare providers, its methodology is a whole-child approach. It constantly strives to strengthen and encourage every child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical well-being through the expertise of its childcare providers and a unique partnership with parents.

Kids ‘R’ Kids International is accredited by AdvancED®, the world’s largest education community, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS/CASI). SACS/CASI is an accreditation division of AdvancED®. This accreditation ensures that the high accreditation standards are met and exceeded.  

Call today at (813) 657-6200 to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids preschool (Kindergarten to Grade 5) or to schedule a visit. 

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Kids ‘R’ Kids, Valrico Shares The Benefits of Play for Preschoolers

The importance of play for preschoolers 

Research has proven that the most important period of human development is from birth to eight years old. Learning during these years happens at a pace that will never be matched. This is when cognitive skills, emotional well-being, social competence, and sound physical and mental health develops, laying a strong foundation for a successful adult. Kids ‘R’ Kids, Valrico, an educational preschool, shares the importance of structured and unstructured play for preschoolers that helps them prepare for formal school.

Structured and unstructured play

Structured play is also called goal-oriented or guided play. It is an activity that comes with structured instructions and has a specific learning objective for a preschooler. It is composed of planned activities that are supervised by adults – parents and teachers. 

However, organizing every detail for children can hamper the development process. Children need to be allowed to use their imagination and individual creativity to learn and grow. 

Unstructured play or free play is focused on creative, improvised forms of activity. It may involve both outdoor and indoor activities wherein the child can take decisions and solve problems independently. Activities may range from pretend play to building blocks and exploring a garden. 

One major drawback of unstructured play is that the child cannot be left alone even for a moment and should be under the parent’s supervision at all times, especially the younger preschool kids. They must be educated about how to keep themselves safe and to recognize the possible dangers around them.

Benefits of play on a child’s development

1. Fosters effective communication

Play enables a child to develop important speech, language as well as listening skills. During play led by preschool teachers or parents, children need to listen to instructions and follow directions to complete a task. This ability to listen and understand helps build communication skills. During unstructured play and without any company children may narrate their pretend play story and practice the words and expressions learned. An unstructured group play will require the children to communicate, discuss, negotiate, and compromise. All this play leads to the development of effective communication skills and a teamwork spirit. 

2. Develops social skills

Unstructured as well as structured play drives children towards the achievement of a shared goal. The collaboration makes children perceptive of each other’s needs, builds assertiveness, teaches negotiation skills, develops cooperation skills, and reinforces the importance of sharing. Ultimately, this group play fosters social skills and children learn to make friends. Through play, children learn to work through their emotions and learn to recognize non-verbal cues, which are important components of language development and social skills. 

3. Builds critical thinking and motor skills

Critical thinking is the ability to think in an organized and rational manner to understand connections between ideas and/or facts. This skill involves the part of the front part of the brain that manages attention, memory, control, and flexibility. Children are constantly making these connections in their world and expanding their knowledge. For instance, they learn numeracy and literacy skills while playing with various toys and books, or while playing with shapes, or counting the pages in a book. 

Physical play is crucial for the development of important motor skills and emotion regulation. Large motor skills like running, throwing, and pedaling; fine motor skills such as writing, coloring, and buttoning; balancing skills like skipping; strength-building by climbing monkey bars; and coordination through sports are some of the numerous skills that emerge from play. Eventually, children become completely independent as their motor and other body skills develop. 

4. Boosts confidence

Most play requires creativity, but imaginative play, in particular, is great for building confidence. It allows children to practice what they see in real life and work through real-world problems. Play is a safe place to practice decision-making and build confidence. Structured play enables children to participate in risky play and test what they are capable of. This is a test of their limits as they work towards their goals in a safe space. As they succeed in achieving their goals in a safe space, their confidence develops and allows them to step out of their comfort zone to learn more.

5. Inspires creativity

Creativity is the final sum of critical thinking and skill development. Pretend play is one of the foundations in children’s world as it allows them to explore and analyze various scenarios, reactions, and conclusions. It exposes them to cause and effect. As per studies, pretend play leads to more sophisticated levels of interaction and higher cognitive ability. 

In conclusion, children need a mix of both structured and unstructured play during their developing years. Structured play provides rules, discipline, and continuity, while free play balances it out with freedom and imagination. Kids ‘R’ Kids, Valrico provides the ideal environment for preschoolers to learn through play and grow into creative, confident, and empathetic individuals.

Why Kids ‘R’ kids?

The philosophy of “Hug First, Then Teach”, defines every aspect of what Kids ‘R’ Kids, Valrico stands for. Unlike many daycare centers or childcare providers, its methodology is a whole-child approach. It constantly strives to strengthen and encourage every child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical well-being through the expertise of its childcare providers and a unique partnership with parents.

Kids ‘R’ Kids International is accredited by AdvancED®, the world’s largest education community, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS/CASI). SACS/CASI is an accreditation division of AdvancED®. This accreditation ensures that the high accreditation standards are met and exceeded.  

Call today at (813) 657-6200 to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids preschool (Kindergarten to Grade 5) or to schedule a visit. 

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Why is reading so important for young children and how to build this habit?

Educational preschool explains the importance of reading and how to inculcate the habit at an early age

“Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.” – Joseph Addison

Language is the most powerful tool human beings possess. And reading is one of the most fulfilling and effective means to master this tool. The habit of reading, if inculcated at an early age, helps in brain development and enhances imagination. It’s never too early to read to a child and to build this habit. It’s a gift for a lifetime.

Kids ‘R’ Kids, a preschool learning center, shares some of the amazing benefits of reading for young children:

1. Cognitive development

Children acquire a deep understanding of their world and receive background knowledge. This helps them make sense of what they see, hear, and read, which aids their cognitive development.

2. Better vocabulary

Reading at an early age not only helps children learn new words and new ways to express themselves, but it also improves their grammar and teaches new concepts. 

 3. Enhanced empathy

Reading allows children to understand various emotions. This helps in their emotional and social development since they learn to associate their feelings with words and find a way to express themselves better. Books showcase various characters and perspectives which allows children to be more empathetic. The cause and effect concept in stories helps develop their analytical skills besides encouraging curiosity, which is crucial to learning. 

4. Bonding between parent and child

Reading time is a beautiful ritual that allows parents and children to connect and unwind. Children love to hear stories from parents while parents find it relaxing to be in a space of fantasy and wonder. Stories trigger conversations and questions that help a child learn and express. Not only is this ritual enjoyable but it also triggers a positive association in a child’s mind. 

5. Sparks curiosity

Only a curious mind attempts to learn. Stories are an insight into parts of the world that are yet unknown to children. A variety of topics present possibilities to children and intrigues them. A book on famous artists, butterflies across the world or the universe may inspire children to explore further and learn more. It also allows children to learn about different cultures and people.

6. Develops concentration

Regular and consistent reading helps to improve children’s concentration abilities. As they sit still and listen for long periods, it builds patience that benefits them at school.

7. Creativity

Reading a book encourages the use of imagination. Characters, costumes, buildings, situations, and dialogues create a visual impression while reading. This imagination sparks further creativity that may help build other life skills.  

8. Reduced screen time

Children’s brains need stimulation to learn and grow. In times of gadgets and games, children have become addicted to screen time that hampers their brain development. They tend to stay home and not interact with their peers. They become physically unhealthy as they spend hours on screen. On the other hand, books inspire children to learn and develop, and explore the world around them.

How to build this wonderful habit at an early age?

At Kids ‘R’ Kids, the curriculum for all age groups (infants to grade 5) revolves around cognitive, physical, literacy, language, social, and emotional development. And story-telling and books are an inherent part of its preschool culture. Here are a few tips on how parents and teachers can build a reading habit in children:

1. Start early

Reading to a young infant may seem like a futile exercise but really isn’t. Children love to hear their parents’ soothing voices and watch their expressions for cues. This habit creates a sense of routine and security for them, which will ensure they continue enjoying reading as they grow older. Investing in some cloth books, touch-and-feel books, puppet books, and board books with ample illustrations would be a good place to start.

2. It’s all in the picture

Young children respond well to pictures and colors. Books with rich illustrations such as pop-up books or books with 3D images are an ideal buy. The association children will make between visuals and the limited text would help them learn new words and expressions during the reading time. 

3. Let them choose

Allowing children to pick up books of their choice will always ensure more interest. This ability to choose gives them a sense of power and makes them stick to their decisions.

4. Once more

All children have their favorites and will, without a doubt, ask for the same story repeatedly. This indicates an understanding of the story and the desire to learn more about the story. There is an invisible connection they are making between words and real situations. 

5. Set an example

Children learn by imitation. When they see their parents read, they will be curious and will want to imitate. Habits and enthusiasm are always contagious.

6. Learn how kids read

Knowing about the reading skills that a child must possess at a certain age helps a parent choose the right books. This knowledge enables parents to keep track of their children’s development and make amends if the need be. The team at Kids ‘R’ kids would be delighted to make suggestions and provide information on this.

Why Kids ‘R’ kids?

The philosophy of “Hug First, Then Teach”, defines every aspect of what Kids ‘R’ Kids, Valrico stands for. Unlike many daycare centers or childcare providers, its methodology is a whole-child approach. It constantly strives to strengthen and encourage every child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical well-being through the expertise of its childcare providers and a unique partnership with parents.

Kids ‘R’ Kids International is accredited by AdvancED®, the world’s largest education community, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS/CASI). SACS/CASI is an accreditation division of AdvancED®. This accreditation ensures that the high accreditation standards are met and exceeded.  

Call today at (813) 654-7000 to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids preschool (Kindergarten to Grade 5) or to schedule a visit.

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5 Signs a Child is Ready for a Summer Camp Program

Kids ‘R’ Kids is a unique childcare facility in Valrico, Florida. They offer an exclusive package with renowned VPK programs to emphasize what children are already learning in Pre-K schools and reinforcing these developmental skills. One of the most common questions these educational professionals receive is whether a child is ready for a summer camp program and all the Pre-K activities involved.

Five Signs That a Pre-K Age Child is Ready For a Summer Camp Program

#1 Does the Child Want to Make New Friends?

Summer camp programs are an excellent way to practice people skills and foster new friendships. While shy kids may find it difficult at first, all children benefit from new and interesting conversations with others who share their interests. If a child is interested in the idea of making new friends, it may be time to enroll them in a summer camp program.

#2 Is the Child Eager to Try New Activities?

If a child is fairly confident in new situations or eager to try Pre-K games with their age group, it’s a good sign they are ready for a day camp. A setting like Kids ‘R’ Kids does wonders for positive learning, including an adaptable Pre-K lesson plan, highly educated staff, and the latest technology inside and outside the classroom. 

Summer day camps offer a wide range of activities and programs. The children who attend them have the chance to try new activities that may be inaccessible in regular classrooms, including sports, art, music, dancing, and STEAM-focused childcare programs. There are so many engaging educational activities available through summer day camps, and children can explore their interests in a safe, fun environment.

#3 How Comfortable and Independent Are They with Everyday Tasks?

Children need to be somewhat independent to attend a summer camp. It might be tasks like feeding themselves, taking care of basic hygiene, and displaying confidence when faced with new experiences. All these aspects are essential indicators that a child is almost ready for summer camp interactions.

A younger child should also be familiar with Pre-K basics before attending a summer camp program, including pre-k sight words needed for instructional content.

#4 Can the Child Follow Directions and Receive Feedback?

If the child listens well and can follow directions, a summer camp program will be beneficial. Whether they are playing sports, tackling a nature adventure, or performing in a recital, following directions is a meaningful sign that summer camp will be an enjoyable experience.

The child’s ability to listen to adults and teachers who give them feedback is just as important. Camp counselors will be leading them in activities and teaching them new skills, so the child must be able to handle regular constructive criticism.

#5 Summer Camps or childcare facilities Near Me

The most important sign that a child is ready for a summer camp program is that they are interested in attending one. If they show signs of excitement when the idea comes up, take the opportunity to discuss it and apply it together. Summer camps and summer childcare programs are very popular and fill up fast, so enrolling as soon as possible is the key to grabbing a spot.

Kids ‘R’ Kids provides childcare and after-school programs and summer day camp options in Valrico, Florida, including the communities of Brandon and the Greater Tampa area. For more information about their Pre-K facilities and educational philosophy, contact their educators at (813) 657-6200 or visit the premises by appointment at Lynx Paw Trail, Valrico, FL 33596.

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Top Tips for Running Successful After School Programs

After school programs offer a variety of benefits for children and parents alike. Working parents leverage extracurricular programs to allow a little more time to travel from the office to the school and flexibility with traffic peaks. The arrangement might also be a convenient alternative for responsible childcare options on longer days with looming deadlines. 

For the children, these interactive programs offer a wide range of opportunities for growth and development as academic students and as impressionable young people. 

Four Tips for Effective After School Programs for Pre-K Age Children

Pre-K schools and daycare programs offer a plethora of activities after the school day finishes. These care programs provide attendees with an established time for homework and playtime in a safe learning environment. VPK programs also allow children to participate in Pre-K activities that prepare them to take the next step toward kindergarten. 

When paired with educational games or constructive activities, Pre-K lessons foster discovery and a sense of wonder. A Pre-K lesson plan should be both effective and enjoyable, and after-school programs particularly aim to achieve this balance with their Pre-K participants. The best approach is through fairness, participation, connection, and organization.

1. Fairness First

In after-school programs for any age group, it is important to practice fairness toward every student. There will be occasions where an educator will need to make exceptions, but clear explanations will help establish trust between the children and the educators within the program. Even the slightest hint of bias is unpalatable for the children attending, and it quickly leads to problems for the educator in maintaining control and connection.

Educators should be aware of distributing resources and individual attention equitably at every opportunity.

2. Encourage Participation

A primary benefit of after-school programs is that they help children develop stronger social skills with their peers. Shy children will often actively participate in activities, and the educator can encourage this behavior by emphasizing a particular lesson rather than a win-lose environment. 

Educators should let the children ask questions about the rules and discuss the expectations of the program’s leaders from the beginning of the year. It is also important to limit access to distractions during instruction.

3. Communication Matters

Effective communication is a vital part of social development in a child. Teachers should be aware of their communication style and use simple language. When students communicate feelings through positive behaviors, it is right to reward them as a form of encouragement. 

A positive attitude is an excellent antidote to deviant behavior. Calm and reasonable responses from an educator demonstrate the behavior the children should display. Adults leading the program can also participate in certain activities or Pre-K games to foster a sense of fun that encourages open communication in a safe environment.

4. More Organization, Less Stress

An orderly space is beneficial for everyone. Educators should: 

• Divide the area into workstations and keep everything consolidated

• Arrange materials beforehand to avoid unnecessary downtime to regroup after each activity

Teaching the students to clean and organize the area after activities also helps foster a sense of ownership for the after-school learning program.

Daycares Near Me in Valrico, FL After School Programs

A fun and safe learning environment is of utmost importance in Pre-K after-school programs. It should teach valuable skills, like Pre-K sight words, and provide a safe environment for children to learn and grow.

The Kids ‘R’ Kids program provides after-school programs in Valrico, Florida, from Pre-K to 5th Grade. Contact the Kids ‘R’ Kids staff today to learn more about the enrollment process or make an appointment to visit their facility at 4321 Lynx Paw Trail, Valrico, FL 33596.

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Helpful Skills Children Learn in Pre-K

Choosing the right VPK program and school is essential to building a child’s educational foundation. Parents here in Valrico, Florida, often have questions about what their child will be learning in Pre-K and how these lesson plans prepare them for school in the future.

When enrolling in an accredited school like Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy, here is what families and children can expect from a VPK program:

What Kids Learn in VPK Programs

#1: Emergent Literacy Skills

VPK programs are responsible for giving children the tools they need to become strong readers and writers. As they learn and grow, children learn the most important literacy skills needed to prepare them for school in the future. 

Several foundations of these skills include:

• Alphabet knowledge – Children will learn all the alphabet letters and the most common sounds associated with them.
• Phonological awareness – Phonological awareness is the ability to recognize and work with sounds in the spoken language. Pre-K age children will learn about compound words, syllables, and rhyming.
• Pre-K sight words – Children learn to memorize the most common words found in children’s books, including “service words” (such as ‘a,’ ‘the,’ ‘and’) and other high-frequency words. This memorization makes reading easier and allows them to focus on other words while reading new material.

Great VPK programs also promote independent reading and help children develop a love for books.

#2: Vocabulary Development

Children will be exposed to new vocabulary words throughout the year, both written and spoken. Learning new words will build the foundation children need to become better speakers, readers, and writers.

#3: Mathematical Thinking Skills

Children are introduced to important mathematical thinking skills related to number sense and operations. These lessons are taught alongside other important mathematical skills, including geometry, pattern recognition, and measurement.

#4: Language and Communication Skills

Fostering a language-rich environment is important for any child in VPK. Children will have the opportunity to tell stories, ask questions, participate in discussions with their teachers and classmates, explain their ways of thinking, and much more. 

#5: Social and Emotional Development

The benefits of enrolling a child in a VPK program go beyond what they might expect to learn in school. Highly-skilled teachers focus on equally important social and emotional skills throughout the year.

Children are taught how to nurture relationships with adults and their peers, learn about self-control and expression, and develop critical thinking strategies.

Humanity and compassion are also important for social and emotional development. Kids will learn how to recognize others’ feelings, sympathize with those feelings, and consider needs outside of their own.

#6: Pre-K Games and Activities

Learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom. Good teachers encourage learning through games and activities. In addition to growing their minds, these activities help develop motor skills while encouraging safe and healthy playtime. Children also participate in these games and activities to learn how to work together with their classmates.

About Kids ‘R’ Learning Academy

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy offers accredited VPK programs, after-school programs, summer programs, and more in Valrico, FL. Their thoughtful curriculums and highly-skilled teachers create an environment to help children succeed in Pre-K, kindergarten, and beyond. To start your child on the road to success, contact Kids ‘R’ Kids today by filling out a simple enrollment inquiry form.

Contact Information:

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Circa / FishHawk

5815 Kids Crossing Dr

Lithia, FL 33547

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Social Skill-Building Pre-K Activities

Preparing your child for preschool means more than teaching them the alphabet and how to count. Social skills development is necessary for their future academic success, and it helps them become effective communicators as they grow into adulthood. Engaging your child in pre-k activities is not only a way for them to have fun, but it also helps them develop these vital skills.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico has accredited daycare programs for preschoolers. Their pre-k lesson plan includes small group instruction and social-emotional activities to prepare them for kindergarten. Below, these professionals discuss several pre-k games and activities to help your little one improve their social awareness and communication skills.

Pre-K Activities to Improve Your Child’s Social Skills

Arrange Playdates

When your child attends kindergarten, they will be around other children their age. For some children, this environmental change can be an overwhelming ordeal, especially if they’re not used to being around other children. 

Before it’s time for your child to attend school, consider arranging playdates with other kids at or near their age. Playdates will acclimate them to interactions with other children. You can allow them to make up their own games or organize different pre-k activities like finger painting or block building. 

Regular social interaction can lead to:

• Improved creativity
• Better language and communication skills
• Understanding teamwork
• A boost in self-confidence

Role Play

Role-playing is an interactive game you can use to engage your child’s imagination. You can take turns acting out different emotions like happiness, sadness, excitement, and anger. This step can help your child learn about different emotions and how to detect them in themselves and other people. 

You can even use puppets to act out different roles or scenarios with your child and teach them:

• The importance of sharing and how to include others in play
• How to respectfully disagree 
• How to give compliments
• How to have empathy 
• How to listen and take turns talking

Play Board Games

Board games are an excellent way to teach your three- or four-year-old how to follow the rules while achieving a goal. When they play with your or another child, they can learn how to deal with friendly competition. It also teaches them how to wait their turn, solve problems, and cope with loss. 

Simple board games like Chutes and Ladders and Candyland don’t require skill, and they are effective tools for showing young children that luck can change fast. These games can teach them how to deal with change while enjoying time with family and friends.

Read Books to Your Child

Reading to your preschooler offers many developmental benefits like recognizing words and language and distinguishing reality from fantasy. Books can also build social skills because they will learn about different characters, their emotions, and their interactions within the story. 

Books provide plenty of topics for you and your child to discuss. By taking the opportunity to encourage discussion, you can help your child develop logic, reasoning, and communication skills.

About Kids ‘R’ Kids of Valrico

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico, Florida, offers before and after school programs, VPK programs, and age-appropriate curriculum to pre-k age children. As one of the area’s leading pre-k schools, their experienced staff will help your child prepare for elementary school and assist with their social skills development. 

For more details about their preschool childcare program, call (813) 657-6200. You can also receive up-to-date news about their offerings and activities by following them on Facebook.

Contact Information:

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico

4321 Lynx Paw Trail

Valrico, FL, 33596

(813) 657-6200

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Top Benefits of Pre-K after school programs

In the United States, 1 in 5 children is unsupervised from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. A quality after school program can turn those hours into a constructive learning opportunity. According to the Afterschool Alliance, a nonprofit organization, 94% of parents report that after school programs help their kids get excited about learning, which leads to improved school performance.

Before and after school programs are especially beneficial in strengthening the social, intellectual, emotional, and physical skills of Pre-K-age students. Florida recognizes the benefits of VPK programs (voluntary Pre-Kindergarten) by providing them to 4- and 5-year-olds at no cost, regardless of family income. When evaluating VPK programs, a family should choose a respected preschool like Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy in Valrico, Florida, which offers much more than daycare programs.

Top Benefits of Before and After School Programs

Children who attend Pre-K programs are more likely to arrive at kindergarten with the skills needed for long-term academic and social achievement. Studies show that after-school programs support everything from increasing a child’s future earning potential to reducing delinquency.  Pre-K schools like Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy put young students on the path to success through an evidence-based curriculum that incorporates Pre-K games with Pre-K activities.

The top three benefits of Pre-K programs include:

1. Helps prepare children for kindergarten and later academic success

A child’s brain grows exponentially in the years before kindergarten. A good Pre-K program relies on a Pre-K lesson plan that focuses on essential skills through hands-on learning. A program might combine a Pre-K sight words lesson with a game or art activity to engage a young child fully. Research shows that children who attended high-quality Pre-K programs are:

• More likely to score higher in math and reading tests
• More likely to graduate from high school
• More likely to find employment at well-paying jobs after high school
• Less likely to be arrested or struggle with substance abuse

2. Supports emotional and social development

A child’s emotional and social health is essential for development and learning. Research shows that children with good mental health are more motivated to learn, make stronger friendships, and achieve higher academic performance as they age. A curriculum-based Pre-K program supports social and emotional growth through teaching children to:

• Take turns and share
• Show empathy to classmates
• Regulate strong emotions
• Improve self-confidence

3. Encourages physical development

Physical development also is key to a child’s learning ability. Pre-K programs support the development of fine motor skills that help children write, draw, and type. Learning through play supports whole-body movement to improve coordination and balance. Also, regular exercise through a Pre-K program can:

• Strengthen the brain center that regulates memory
• Improve a child’s test-taking performance
• Boost reading, math, and spelling scores
• Help develop healthy physical and nutritional habits

Looking for a Pre-K Program in Valrico, FL?

Hillsborough County residents who search for “daycares near me” should make sure to select a Pre-K program that focuses on encouraging academic, social, and physical growth through curriculum-based activities and games. Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy, located at 4321 Lynx Paw Trail, Valrico, FL 33596, has years of experience, giving parents confidence that the program will prepare their children for kindergarten and future success.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy offers a safe and secure environment that provides:

• Online video monitoring of classrooms
• Innovative and fun accredited programs
• Nutritious meals and snacks

Interested parents should call Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy today at 813-657-6200 or contact the academy online to plan a visit.

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How to Achieve Preschool Success with Online Learning Academy Programs

Avoiding close contact with others is one of the first protective measures that societies worldwide implemented to prevent COVID-19 transmission. To cope with the health crisis, educators resorted to online platforms, which have proved highly successful in purely academic settings.

However, in pre-k schools, learning is about more than receiving the delivered curriculum. In these schools, children learn through play and social interaction with classmates and teachers. Like higher-level schools, preschools with after-school programs have frequently needed to use virtual platforms such as virtual VPK programs to provide small children with engaging jobs to help them learn remotely.

Following are some tips and insights you can follow to improve your child’s virtual preschool experience.

Maintain Normal Routines

The sudden transition from a regular school routine to learning from home can be highly disruptive, especially to young children. One of the most effective ways to ensure familiarity with virtual learning is to stick to daily routines.

The Online Learning Academy Program from Kids ‘R’ Kids implements fixed virtual class times on weekdays, making it simple to maintain regular routines. The pre-k lesson plan for ages four and five has two different classes per day – one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Manage Your Expectations

If you don’t have a background in early childhood development, you may fall into the trap of expecting too much from your child. As a facilitator of the Online Academy Program, be sure to realize that each child will learn at his or her own pace.

The Online Academy Program from Kids ‘R’ Kids offers various high-value features, including a subscription to abcmouse.com, educational pre-k games, music and movement, and pre-k sight words. A visual schedule with each week’s objectives can be of substantial value in managing your child’s expectations.

Incorporate Home Extension Activities

Just as adults do, your child will start experiencing screen fatigue at some point. Staring at a screen will also not give your child the sensory stimulation and personal interaction they need to learn and develop.

Kids ‘R’ Kids has home extension activities and downloadable class materials available for you as a parent to use to promote learning in a real-world setting after the virtual screen session ends. Extension activities help children apply the information they learned to everyday situations and interactions with both people and objects.

Participate and Show Enthusiasm

Small children often don’t know how to respond to their virtual lessons. An integral part of a parent’s facilitating these programs is demonstrating to your child what she or he should do when taking part in the Online Learning Academy.

Enthusiastically answering the teachers’ questions, singing along, and dancing—all will help your child feel comfortable participating and having fun in front of the computer screen. Afterward, ask your child questions about the class to promote engagement and interest.

About the Company

Kids ‘R’ Kids is a family-owned learning academy offering a wide range of innovative learning programs. The curriculum focuses on five core areas of education: technology, science, engineering, math, and art. Kids ‘R’ Kids understands the importance of providing parents with complete access to and information about their children’s progress.

Please be sure to contact Kids ‘R’ Kids today to find out how you and your child might benefit from the Online Learning Academy’s curriculum.

The post How to Achieve Preschool Success with Online Learning Academy Programs appeared first on Valrico.

Published First on: Blog – Valrico https://kidsrkids.com/valrico/pre-k/how-to-achieve-preschool-success-with-online-learning-academy-programs/

Preschool Learning Center Highlights the Benefits of Sunlight for Children

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico, FL, aims for all the children enrolled at the educational preschool to have the opportunity to grow physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually by playing, exploring, and learning with others in a fun, safe, and healthy environment. The staff and teachers, working in conjunction with the parents and caregivers, fulfill this mission by addressing the whole child.

Studies confirm that children benefit from exposure to outdoor levels of illumination which far exceed the lighting level in a typical classroom. Bright light, which improves mood and concentration, may help prevent disease, circadian rhythm disorders, and nearsightedness. Breaking research indicates that bright light has a significant effect on the brain and may foster the formation of new nerve endings and improve learning.

Comparison of outdoor daylight and artificial indoor lighting

Sunlight:

• Sunny day: 100,000 lux (A unit for measuring light)
• Cloudy: 10,000-40,000 lux
• Overcast and gloomy: 1,000 lux

Artificial Lighting:

• Brightly lit classroom: 500 lux
• Watching TV in the den: 50 lux

Indoor lighting is dramatically less than outdoor sunlight, which is disconcerting. The bright light levels found outside benefit children. Consider the following benefits of sunlight and bright light.

Benefit: Bright light offers positive effects on mood.

Bright light has an animating effect on people. The mood is elevated by bright light, and bright light therapy can effectively provide some relief for depression.

Benefit: Daily exposure to bright light of 15,000 lux or higher may protect children from developing myopia.

According to research on the matter, outdoor playtime decreases the risk of developing nearsightedness. Reasons are not entirely understood for the decrease, but the effects of exposure to light seem to be the source of the improved eyesight.

Benefit: Sunlight helps children generate good levels of vitamin D.

Sufficient amounts of vitamin D helps protect children from a wide range of unwanted health conditions. Low levels of vitamin D can put children at increased risk for cardiovascular disease, poor bone health, and a reduction in the function of the muscles. Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to a decrease in mental planning skills or brain fog.

Benefit: Sunlight may keep children from having multiple sclerosis (MS) when they grow up.

Numerous studies link high levels of sunlight exposure during childhood to a reduced risk of MS. Sunlight, apart from vitamin D, maybe the agent that helps stave off MS.

Benefit: Exposure to bright morning sunlight can help prevent delayed bedtimes.

Children who have been out in the sunlight seem to be more prone to go to sleep earlier and less prone to experience sleep-related behavior problems. Parents should be aware that delayed bedtimes may not have a negative impact as long as wake-up times are later. However, when children must rise early for school, delayed bedtimes and the corresponding lack of sleep can negatively impact children. Research seems to suggest that delayed bedtimes and lack of sleep are linked with poor academic performance and behavior problems. Catch up sleep, such as a nap, can help to overcome the effects of a sleep deficit.

Why do kids fail to go to sleep on schedule? Part of the problem stems from lighting. There is exposure to too little sunlight during the day and exposure to excessive amounts of artificial lighting at night. Children’s circadian rhythms are out of rhythm with a twenty-four-hour day.

Some practical and easy solutions that can be implemented include:

• Avoiding artificial lighting at night.
• Stopping the use of electronic devices an hour before bedtime.
• Getting a dose of bright morning light helps kids with chronic bedtime problems get back on track.

Does daylight make children smarter?

Consider the following research:

• Vitamin D is beneficial for mental planning skills.
• Late bedtimes resulting from too little bright sunlight can increase attention problems.
• Exposure to bright light might improve mental performance.
• Bright lights elevate mood, which could be an important motivator at school.
• Children involved in a recent study preferred brightly lit classrooms (1,300 to 4,400 lux) to poorly lit classrooms (250-740 lux).

Bright lighting has additional benefits:

• Children read more fluently in classrooms that have very bright lighting.
• Recent experiments suggest that bright light may have a direct effect on the ability to learn. Removing bright light and keeping children indoors in dimly lit rooms might lead to learning deficits.

It is important that children be exposed to bright sunlight and bright artificial lighting in the classroom. Parents, preschool teachers, and caregivers have something to gain by going the extra mile to ensure that every child receives his or her time in the sun.

Precautions do need to be taken against harmful UVB rays. Hats and sunscreen are vital protective gear when sunlight is intense. Children need daylight for their health and overall well-being because research suggests that enjoying nature and being outdoors is intrinsically beneficial.

For more information about the Valrico, FL, preschool, contact Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico, FL, by phone at (813) 657-6200.

The post Preschool Learning Center Highlights the Benefits of Sunlight for Children appeared first on Valrico.

Published First on: Blog – Valrico https://kidsrkids.com/valrico/preschool/preschool-learning-center-highlights-the-benefits-of-sunlight-for-children/